R.I.P. ALLAN HOLDSWORTH

The music world and guitar community were shocked and saddened by the unexpected death of one of THE most innovative and enigmatic guitarists ever.

I am talking about Allan Holdsworth…he passed away suddenly yesterday at age 70.

Tributes came pouring in all over social media, from artists as varied as Vernon Reid, Richie Kotzen, Joe Satriani, Hansford Rowe, Jeff Berlin, Billy Sheehan…you name it. Allan was not a household name but his influence is all over every guitar player who wanted to step out of the blues box and try to be unconventional. That’s TRY to. Nobody will ever come close to Allan’s imagination and unique approach to chord structures and non-linear guitar solos.

Start with his amazing work on the first U.K. self-titled album, and then check out his solo album I.O.U. And for a special treat, listen to his blinding solos on some songs from the Level 42 album GUARANTEED. “If You Were Mine” still makes me want to put my guitar in the fireplace.